Privacy

Is your password your best-kept secret?

According to the Norton Cyber Security Insights Report, a surprising 35 percent of Millennials — the generation that grew up with the internet — show little restraint when it comes to cyber privacy and are actually okay with sharing their passwords.

Why do we need strong passwords?

We have heard it over and over again. Using strong passwords ensures a safe digital life.

A robust password not only protects your computer from viruses, malware and ransomware attacks, it also protects you from identity theft. A password that once protected your devices now protects you.

Using the same passwords across different websites poses a large risk. If one of the websites you use experiences a data breach, all of the other sites that you use the same password on are now at risk as well.

What makes a password secure?

To protect your accounts and make it difficult for attackers to access your information, use strong, unique passwords, making sure you use a combination of at least 10 upper and lowercase letters, symbols and numbers. Better still, change your passwords every three months and don’t reuse passwords for multiple accounts. So even if a cybercriminal gets one of your passwords, they won’t be able to access all of your accounts.

With our digital lives intertwined with our daily life, it can be overwhelming to try and keep track of all websites and apps and the passwords that go with it. Using a good password manager like Norton Identity Safe makes logging into your favorite sites easier and more secure. This free app keeps your passwords synchronized across different computers, browsers, and mobile devices.

Tips to keep your password secure

Always log off when you are done using your device. Make sure you use different passwords for each of your accounts.

Change your passwords often. Experts recommend changing it every three months and not using the same password for a year.

Use a comprehensive internet security suite to keep all your devices safe from malware and viruses that can steal your password.

Do not enter passwords when using unsecured Wi-Fi connections (like at the airport or coffee shop)—hackers can intercept your passwords and data over this unsecured connection. If you are compelled to do so make sure your information is encrypted. Norton Secure VPN lets you surf the web anonymously so that your privacy is protected.

Use two-factor authentication where it is available. This adds an extra layer of authentication in addition to your password to access your accounts.

The first step to secure your digital life is awareness. Learn more about the cyber threat landscape and be in control of your online activities.

Don’t wait until a threat strikes.

Security threats and malware lurk on Windows PCs, Macs, and Android and iOS devices. If you use more than one device – like most of us do – you need an all-in-one security suite. Meet Norton Security Premium.

Enjoy peace of mind on every device you use with Norton Security Premium.

Symantec Corporation, the world’s leading cyber security company, allows organizations, governments, and people to secure their most important data wherever it lives. More than 50 million people and families rely on Symantec’s Norton and LifeLock comprehensive digital safety platform to help protect their personal information, devices, home networks, and identities.